Group B streptococcus (Streptococcus agalactiae) screen
Microbiology
Bacteriology
○ Combined vaginal/rectal swab
Other Information
○ This test functions only as a perinatal screen for the presence of Group B streptococcus
○ Group B streptococcal disease in other patients (e.g. nonpregnant adults and neonates) will be identified by routine culture and cannot be ordered separately
○ Cervical, perianal, perirectal, perineal and vaginal (non-introital) swabs are not recommended for Group B streptococcal screening cultures, but will be processed if received by the laboratory
○ Vaginal (introital)/rectal swab in Amies transport medium (eSwab)
○ Collect specimen at 35 to 37 week gestation ○ Swab lower vagina (introitus) followed by the anorectal area using a single swab. Place swab into Amies transport medium and transport to the laboratory.
Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery
In-house
416-586-4800 extension 4507
NO
○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.
○ Specimens should be stored and transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory at room temperature (20-25˚C) after collection